Opossum Footprints

The opossum is a fascinating creature from the tip of its nose down to its toes!

paw_left.jpeg (44288 bytes)To the left is the front foot or paw. Notice the soft, delicate skin and small nails. The opossum is not capable of doing a lot of digging. Opossums are sometimes seen feeding themselves with their paws.

paw_rear.jpeg (42134 bytes)

Look at the opposable “thumb” on the rear foot (at right) ! Not many animals have thumbs. The useful anatomy allows the opossum to grasp and hold branches in a manner similar to a human hand. They also use the feet to groom themselves. The tail usually leaves a drag line in the dirt between the tracks.

Kids: Sprinkle flour in your yard at night, with parents’ permission. Check in the morning and see if you can find opossum prints. Maybe you will find other animals tracks, too!

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Opossum Society of the United States